How does Acts 24:25 challenge us to live righteously and with self-control? The Setting That Confronts Us Acts 24:25: “As Paul expounded on righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix became afraid and said, ‘You may leave for now. When I find the time, I will summon you again.’” • Paul speaks plainly; Felix trembles. • The same trio—righteousness, self-control, judgment—still presses on every conscience today. Righteousness: Aligning Life with God’s Standard • Scripture defines righteousness, not culture (Psalm 119:142; Isaiah 5:20). • Christ is our perfect model (1 John 2:6). • To “hunger and thirst for righteousness” (Matthew 5:6) means: – Daily examining motives and actions. – Rejecting compromise even when convenient. – Pursuing integrity in hidden places (Proverbs 11:3). Self-Control: Governing Desires Before They Govern Us • Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). • Titus 2:11-12: grace “teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions.” • Practical arenas: – Speech (James 1:19). – Sexual purity (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). – Finances (Hebrews 13:5). – Emotions—anger, anxiety, envy (Proverbs 16:32; Philippians 4:6-7). The Coming Judgment: Urgency That Fuels Obedience • Hebrews 9:27: “people are appointed to die once, and after that to face judgment.” • 2 Corinthians 5:10: every believer’s works tested. • Knowing this: – Exposes excuses (“when I find the time”). – Silences procrastination (James 4:13-14). – Spurs evangelism and holy living (1 Peter 3:15). Practical Ways to Cultivate Righteousness and Self-Control 1. Anchor daily in God’s Word (Psalm 1:2-3). 2. Pray specifically for Spirit-enabled restraint (Luke 22:40). 3. Establish accountable relationships (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). 4. Replace temptation zones with purposeful service (Romans 12:11). 5. Memorize verses that cut the impulse short (e.g., 1 Corinthians 10:13). Reinforcing Verses • Romans 6:12-13 — don’t let sin reign; offer yourselves to God. • 1 Timothy 6:11 — “pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.” • 2 Peter 1:5-7 — add to faith “self-control… godliness.” Key Takeaway Paul’s message before Felix still echoes: righteousness is God’s non-negotiable, self-control is His appointed guardrail, and judgment is the fixed date on His calendar. Now—not “when I find the time”—is the moment to respond. |
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